Craniofacial pain is a most common disorder affecting the general population. As the reasons for acute and chronic craniofacial pain can be extremely diverse, diagnostic and therapy require an interdisciplinary approach. From the dental and maxillofacial standpoint, craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) must be taken into consideration in treating such patients. Dental risk factors for CMD are mainly occlusal interferences which can be intensified in combination with psycho-emotional stress.
Current research as for example the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) shows high evidence between CMD and tension headache, migraine, neuralgic pain, TMJ problems and tinnitus as well as relations to cervical vertebrae- and backache. Therefore the dental profession has a big responsibility within an interdisciplinary medical approach to these diseases.
